Ep 83: Why Screens Are Ruining Our Vision (And What To Do About It)

In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a functional optometrist and founder of MyVisionFirst, to talk about something most of us never learned: the difference between eyesight and vision — and why it matters far more than we realize.

We dive into how the eye–brain connection impacts everything from driving anxiety and dizziness to screen fatigue, learning challenges, ADHD-like symptoms, and even athletic performance. Dr. B explains why 20/20 eyesight doesn’t mean your visual system is working well, how screens are reshaping our brains and vision, and why so many symptoms get missed or misdiagnosed.

I also share my personal experience with sudden vertigo while driving — and how vision therapy changed everything.

You’ll learn:

• The difference between eyesight and vision (and why most doctors don’t explain it)
• Why screens, loupes, and near work stress the visual system
• Signs your symptoms may be vision-related (motion sickness, fatigue, anxiety, reading issues)
• Simple daily vision exercises you can do at home
• How vision therapy supports driving confidence, focus, and brain health
• Why kids and adults alike should be screened for functional vision issues

👉 Special offer: Dr. B is offering listeners $200 off his ScreenFit program with code STRAIGHTUP 

Website: https://myvisionfirst.com/

About Dr Appelbaum

Connect with Dr B:

Instagram: @drbryceappelbaum Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drbryceappelbaum Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myvisionfirstoptometry Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-bryce-appelbaum/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.bryceappelbaum

To watch on YouTube, click here

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. 

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Chapters

• 0:00 functional vision training, eyesight vs vision, vertigo, BVD, stress, driving
• 22:01 vision in athletes, vision performance training
• 28:27 screens damage vision, myopia, AI, blue light, tips for screen use
• 35:04 vision therapy, concussion, ScreenFit, reading issues
• 43:17 ADHD, learning disorders, dyslexia, signs of kids vision issues
• 48:52 signs of vision issues in adults, age related vision issues, dry eyes, supplements, diet
• 56:13 Connect with Dr B
• 58:39 vision problems in dental workers, loupes, ergonomics, vision therapy, top exercises